MicroNutrients Flashcards
Phosphorous
FUNCTION Work with calcium to ossify bones and teeth Component of DNA Assists in the contraction of muscles Balance of bodily fluids FOOD SOURCE Eggs, fish such as salmon
Calcium
FUNCTION
Harding or ossifying agent for hard tissues such as bones, teeth and cartilage
Assists in muscular contractions
Nerve and muscle functioning
Activity of some enzymes such as insulin
FOOD SOURCE
Milk, cheese, yogurt, salmon and sardines with bones, green leafy vegetables
Fluoride
FUNCTION Helps strengthen tooth enamel Prevents tooth decay and dental carries Assist in ossifying bones FOOD SOURCE Fluoridated tap water, sardines, salmon
Iron
FUNCTION
Forms the haem part of haemoglobin which is the oxygen carrying component of red blood cells
Formation of myoglobin which stores oxygen in the muscles
FOOD SOURCE
Lean red meat, turkey, brown rice, broccoli, oysters, liver
Iodine
FUNCTION Required in the thyroid gland to assist in regulation of the body's metabolism through the formation of thyroxine Metabolism is required to sustain life FOOD SOURCE Strawberries, seaweed, seafood (salmon)
Sodium
FUNCTION
Regulation of bodily fluid including blood and water
Assists in transmission of messages along nerves
Controlling of blood pressure
FOOD SOURCE
Table salt, olives, cheese, pork
Vitamin A
FUNCTION
Required for optimal vision
Assist in cell division and reproduction
Forms an important part of skin and mucous membranes which provide protection against infection
FOOD SOURCE
Carrots, sweet potato, pumpkin, eggs, liver
Folate (B9)
FUNCTION
Adequate cell division and maintenance
Required for optimal DNA and RNA synthesis
FOOD SOURCE
Vegemite, spinach, bok choy, mushrooms, liver, folate fortified bread
Vitamin B12
FUNCTION
Important for the functioning of the brain and nervous system
Assists in the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates
Production and regeneration of red blood cells
FOOD SOURCE
Eggs, milk, yoghurt, liver
Vitamin D
FUNCTION
Absorption of calcium and phosphorous from the bloods stream
Increases deposits of phosphorous and calcium
FOOD SOURCE
Red, yellow and orange capsicum, eggs
Vitamin C
FUNCTION Bonds with protein to produce collagen Increase the activity of antibodies, improving the immune system FOOD SOURCE Lemons, oranges, capsicum, tomato